My 2 cents. I am probably not a good example on how to do a six conversion because this is my first and I've never driven a 914 before diving in so warning right up front. I purchased a 75 roller with the plan to do as much as possible by myself to save money ( insert laughs here )
. On 12/1/2006 my chassis was delivered by the seller. No engine,transmission or wheels. But came with a fair amount of parts. I've never taken on a project like this but I am a DIYer in general. I had visions of creating a M471/GT clone. I wasn't even thinking about an engine for the first year other than I knew I was doing a six. So my theory was get the chassis as up to date as possible to handle whatever power I was going with. That meant front and rear suspension completely gone over and elephant racing poly bronze suspension bushings. Rear swing arms were boxed for strength. Front struts were replaced with 911 3 inch mounting ear for 911 M brake calipers front and rear. 20mm vented rotors front and rear with 911 ebrake. I added a 19mm master cylinder and a 19mm adjustable front sway bar. Stock 914 torsion bars with rear Koni shocks and 140 lb. springs. Every nut,bolt,washer ect. were cleaned up or replaced. So that took me thru the first year basically working weekends only. Then I turned to the body. I only was going to do this project if I went with metal flares it's the look I wanted. I was lucky enough to get in on the AA group buy of flares. Believe me lining up and then cutting off good body parts was a little un-nerving at first but once you're cutting keep going ! I welded the flares myself and it was a great learning experience. All that have seen these in person comment what a great job I did. I prepped and primed the flares and was done until final paint. I then directed my efforts on an engine and transmission. Found a pristine 901 tranny for $100.00 so that was checked off the list. Then found a 1978 911SC 3.0 in N.C. for a decent price ( $3000.00 ) and purchased that. I am familiar with the 3.0 because I have one in my SC. Very strong motor with few problems that makes good power and torque. Rich Johnson motor mount,throttle cable setup,oil cooler mods and I'm good to go. I am now in the final stretch of my 3 year resto and I've spent aprox. $25,000.00 so I am way over my original budget. But the pride I feel knowing I did it myself is priceless. Sorry for the long reply but my point is if you have the time and not too concerned about the money do the resto yourself. Good luck.
